Is Criminal Damage a Felony in AZ?
Discussion of Is Criminal Damage a Felony in AZ?
In Arizona, criminal damage can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the severity of the damage and the circumstances surrounding the incident. It is classified as a Class 6 felony if the property damage is between $250 and $2,000, caused recklessly by the individual. Criminal damage involving more significant amounts, public utilities, or hate crimes may result in more severe felony charges. However, if the damage is less substantial, it will be charged as a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Understanding the specific circumstances of your case is crucial in determining the potential legal consequences.
Criminal damage in Arizona is an offense that can range from simple vandalism to more severe destruction of property. But is criminal damage considered a felony in the state? In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different levels of criminal damage in Arizona and the penalties associated with each level. Additionally, we’ll highlight the importance of seeking legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney like Chelle Law if you’re facing criminal damage charges. What is the penalty for destruction of property in Arizona?
Understanding Criminal Damage in Arizona
Criminal damage in Arizona is governed by Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1602. According to the statute, a person commits criminal damage when they recklessly deface, damage, or tamper with another person’s property, either intentionally or recklessly. The severity of the offense is determined by the value of the damaged property and the circumstances surrounding the act.
Levels of Criminal Damage and Associated Penalties
Criminal damage in Arizona can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the damaged property and the specific circumstances of the case. Here are the various classifications of criminal damage and their penalties:
- Class 2 Misdemeanor: When the damage is valued at less than $250, the offense is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 4 months in jail and a fine of up to $750.
- Class 1 Misdemeanor: If the damage is valued between $250 and $1,000, the offense becomes a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
- Class 6 Felony: Criminal damage becomes a Class 6 felony when the value of the damaged property ranges from $1,000 to $2,000. This level of offense carries a potential prison sentence of 6 months to 1.5 years and a fine of up to $150,000.
- Class 5 Felony: When the damage is valued between $2,000 and $10,000, it is considered a Class 5 felony, punishable by a prison sentence of 9 months to 2 years and a fine of up to $150,000.
- Class 4 Felony: If the damage is valued at over $10,000 or involves a public utility, it is classified as a Class 4 felony, which carries a prison sentence of 1.5 to 3 years and a fine of up to $150,000.
Defending Against Criminal Damage Charges
If you’re facing criminal damage charges in Arizona, it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. A skilled attorney like those at Chelle Law can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work to protect your rights. Potential defense strategies might include arguing that the damage was accidental or that the value of the damaged property has been overestimated. What are the charges for vandalism in Arizona?
Criminal damage in Arizona can be classified as a felony, depending on the value of the damaged property and the specific circumstances of the case. If you’re facing criminal damage charges, it’s essential to consult with an experienced Scottsdale Criminal Damage Attorney to protect your rights and build a strong defense. Contact Chelle Law today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you navigate the legal process.
Is vandalism a felony in Arizona?
In Arizona, vandalism, often referred to as criminal damage, can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the extent of the property damage and the circumstances of the case. Vandalism becomes a felony when the damage exceeds $1,000, involves public utilities, or is a result of a hate crime. If the damage is less severe, it may be charged as a misdemeanor. Regardless of the charge, vandalism should be taken seriously, and it is advisable to consult with an experienced attorney to understand your rights and the potential consequences.
What is the law on damaged property in Arizona?
In Arizona, the law on damaged property falls under the category of criminal damage. A person is considered to have committed criminal damage if they recklessly damage another person’s property, tamper with another person’s property in a way that impairs its function or value, or deface any public or private building by drawing a message, slogan, sign, or symbol. Criminal damage also includes actions such as park or agricultural vandalism, and damage to utility fixtures. Penalties for criminal damage in Arizona vary based on the extent of the damage and can range from a Class 2 misdemeanor to a Class 4 felony. Consequences may include fines, community service, probation, or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and the individual’s criminal history.
